DNA to help find suspects in bird of prey offences

A BREAKTHROUGH in the recovery of human DNA could help police crack wildlife crimes, including the illegal persecution of Scotland’s iconic birds of prey. Investigations could be supported by new research into retrieving human DNA found at crime scenes.

DNA testing could help catch wildlife criminals who harm birds of prey

The research was initiated by the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW) Scotland and carried out by the Scottish Police Authority’s (SPA) Forensic Services, the Scottish Government and the University of Strathclyde.

It found DNA can be traced on traps that have been outside for at least 10 days, and from rabbit baits and bird carcasses at crime scenes after at least 24 hours. Until now, efforts to prosecute have been hampered by a lack of evidence.

The RSPB’s most recent Birdcrime report revealed there were nine confirmed incidents of raptor persecution in Scotland in 2016, but not a single prosecution.

It was claimed the number was likely to be “the tip of the iceberg”, as many illegal killings go undetected or unreported.

Related articles

Poisoning, trapping and shooting are all methods used to illegally target birds of prey.

Roseanna Cunningham

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham who is also chair of PAW Scotland, said: “Poisoning, trapping and shooting are all methods used to illegally target birds of prey.

"However, investigations can often be hampered by a lack of evidence.

"This new research will unlock the potential of using DNA profiles to track criminals and could play a crucial role in helping secure convictions.

“We continue to prioritise wildlife crime and are working to develop ways to protect our precious birds of prey, including through a new wildlife crime detective post at Police Scotland HQ and a new team of special constables to tackle rural crime in the Cairngorms National Park.”

Rare photos show a glimpse of the most endangered species in the world

Fri, May 5, 2017

Some of the world’s greatest wildlife photographers have come together to give a remarkably candid view of our most cherished and elusive birds and mammals at ease in their remote haunts